If you’ll be heading outdoors this summer, it’s important to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water not only helps prevent dangerous conditions like heat stroke, but it also benefits your oral health. Unfortunately, however, it can sometimes be difficult to tell you’re dehydrated until it’s too late. Here are four sneaky warning signs that your body needs more H2O, stat!
Headaches
Dehydration can cause your brain tissue to temporarily shrink, causing a painful headache or even a migraine. If you find yourself experiencing sudden discomfort, immediately drink water, and if possible, rest somewhere out of the heat.
Hunger
When you were a child, did your mother tell you to drink a glass of water if you got hungry before dinner? Well, it turns out she may have been right. You see, sometimes when your body is dehydrated, it can feel like it really wants food. This is because the brain signals the body it is both hungry and thirsty from the same area, which is known as the hypothalamus. So, if it feels like you’re suddenly hungry for no reason, it could actually be that you’re dehydrated.
Muscle Cramps & Spasms
Electrolytes are charged minerals that are essential for keeping your body hydrated. When your supply becomes depleted, however, it can cause painful muscle cramps or spasms. To replenish electrolytes and stop these uncomfortable aches, be sure to drink plenty of water, especially if you’re an athlete or performing physically strenuous activity in the heat.
Dry Mouth / Bad Breath
Saliva is a naturally occurring mixture of water, mucous, and enzymes. Its main purpose is to aid in digestion and keep the mouth hydrated. Without it, you can develop a dangerous condition called dry mouth, which can make it easier for harmful oral bacteria to proliferate, increasing your risk of cavities, bad breath, and periodontal disease. Thus, if your mouth seems a bit dry or low on saliva, your body likely needs water, too, so stop what you’re doing and grab a bottle or glass to protect yourself and your smile!
Remember, your body has many ways of telling you that it needs water. If you are experiencing any of the above signs, or if you simply feel thirsty, don’t put your oral and overall health at risk this summer. Keep a bottle of water nearby if you’ll be heading outdoors and remain hydrated all year round by drinking the recommended amount of H2O daily (15.5 cups per day for men; 11.5 cups per day for women).
About Our Practice
At Jacksonville Dental Excellence, Dr. Ryan Johnson and Dr. Rose Johnson want you to stay safe and hydrated this summer. Drinking plenty of water isn’t just beneficial to your body, it also can protect your teeth and gums from a variety of dangerous oral health conditions. If it’s been a while since your last dental examination, take a break from the summer sun and schedule your checkup and cleaning today. We’ll make sure your mouth is in good health, and free of any dangerous conditions caused by dehydration or other problems. To book your exam and cleaning, visit our website or call 904-895-4536.